Harbhajan Singh says relations between the two countries should get better

India and Pakistan are set to clash on the cricket ground for the Asia Cup on Sunday for the first time after Operation Sindoor.

There has been considerable buzz and controversy surrounding the upcoming India-Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup 2025, scheduled for Sunday in Dubai. Many calls for banning the match have come from across Indian fans, former cricketers, and analysts. Recently, Harbhajan Singh too spoke about the same.

Harbhajan Singh spoke about the IND vs PAK clash in the Asia Cup 2025.

Former spinner Harbhajan Singh said that relations between the two nations must improve before they face off against each other on the cricket field. Speaking to the media during a Society magazine event, he said, “India-Pakistan match always comes in the limelight, but after the Operation Sindoor, everyone said there should be no cricket and no business. We were playing the (World Championship of) Legends, we did not play that match (against Pakistan).”

Harbhajan says he personally doesn’t support cricket and trade with Pakistan.

Harbhajan Singh stated that, although he personally doesn’t support cricket or trade with Pakistan, he respects the Indian government’s stance on the matter. He said, “Everyone has their own way of thinking and understanding, but I feel till the time relations between the two countries do not improve, cricket and business should not be there as well. But then, that is my thought. If the government says the match can happen, it should happen, but the relations between the two countries should be better.”

Harbhajan Singh also praised the Indian cricket team, saying, “If there is any team which can beat the Indian team, it is the Indian team itself. It is such a strong team. Our cricket is at a different level, the way we have made our name, even if Virat (Kohli) and Rohit (Sharma) are gone, the team is completely ready.” He added, “Playing in Dubai is like playing at home and home turf. The role of the spinners will be huge, and I hope the team brings the cup back.” He even appealed to extend support to flood-affected Punjab and said, “Punjabi people have this spirit and trait of standing up for whoever is in trouble, not just their own people. Today, Punjab is facing this disaster; a lot of people have been affected, and a lot of farms have been affected. I would have been nothing if not for Punjab. Your support is important; it can be of any kind.”